Speaker Biography
Dr. Damian Chase
BVSc, MANZCVS, DECVS
European and NZ Registered Specialist in Small Animal Surgery

“Dr Damian Chase is a European Specialist in Small Animal Surgery with particular expertise in complex fracture fixation and reconstructive surgery. After graduating from Massey University in 1997 and spending a decade in general practice, he pursued specialist training in the UK, completing an internship in Hertfordshire and a residency at Glasgow University, before earning his ECVS Diploma in 2011. Returning to New Zealand in 2014, Damian now leads the surgical team at VSA Auckland West, bringing over two decades of clinical experience to some of the most technically demanding cases in small animal surgery.
Beyond companion animal practice, Damian has a passion for wildlife surgery, operating on species including chimpanzees, giraffes, seals, and lowland gorillas, including two dedicated trips to Cameroon. When he’s not in theatre, he can be found enjoying the New Zealand outdoors or at home with his whānau, one wise old dog, one not-so-wise old dog, and a three-legged cat who is smarter than everyone.
Value to your practice
Gastrointestinal surgery cases, from GDV to intestinal obstruction, are time-critical presentations that every practice encounters, and the ability to manage them confidently in-house makes a tangible difference to patient outcomes, client trust, and practice reputation. This workshop gives you the practical skills to perform exploratory laparotomy, enterotomy, intestinal anastomosis, and GDV management with confidence, reducing the need for emergency referral and expanding what your practice can reliably offer. The result is better outcomes for your patients, a stronger reputation as a centre of surgical excellence, and a more capable and fulfilled surgical team.
Accommodation
There are 2 suggested accommodation options which are a 5 minute drive from the workshop venue and 15 minutes to Auckland airport, including:
- Ramada Manukau
- The Sebel Manukau : The Sebel is pleased to offer a 12% discount on their Best Available Rate. Simply contact The Sebel directly and mention ‘Practical CPD Workshop – 12% off Best Available Rate’, and their team will apply the discount when processing your booking.
Event Details
Start date: August 27, 2027
End date: August 28, 2027
Start time: 08:30 NZST
End time: 17:00 NZST
Venue: Kahuvet Education Centre, Wiri, Auckland
Coordinates: -37.004418, 174.866307
Directions: 23 Ash Road, Wiri, Auckland 2104
Phone: 0800 524 883
Email: info@practicalcpd.co.nz